Australia's Afghanistan war crimes report: 39 alleged unlawful killings

The Defence Chief says there is information to substantiate 23 incidents of alleged unlawful killing of 39 people by 25 special forces personnel.

The landmark inquiry into Australian special forces in Afghanistan has found evidence of the “murder” of 39 prisoners, farmers or other civilians.

Australian Defence Force Chief Angus Campbell has released the final report today.

“To the people of Afghanistan, on behalf of the Australian Defence Force, I sincerely and unreservedly apologise for any wrongdoing by Australian soldiers,” General Campbell said.

“It is my duty and that of my fellow chiefs to set things right.”

He said the report found none of the alleged unlawful killings were described as “being in the heat of battle”.

“None were alleged to have occurred in circumstances in which the intent of the perpetrator was unclear, confused or mistaken.

“Every person spoken to by the inquiry thoroughly understood the law of armed conflict and the rules of engagement under which they operated.”

The report follows a lengthy inquiry which examined allegations of unlawful killings and other possible breaches by Australia’s elite special forces.

– ABC